Antique Oak Umbrella Walking Stick Stand, Carved Feature Panels XMAS PRICE DROP
A fine example of how attentive craftsmen were, to make beautiful pieces that are functional, with time perhaps offering more appreciation, as we compare to our mass produced'far eastern' examples of flimsy products, designed not to last. A sad reflection on modernity, though fortunately there are many of us that still care and realise the value of composing a surrounding that reflects our traditions, our pride of standards in items that the masses now overlook. This is a wonderful everyday use piece, that completes an area with grace, function and form. To the discerning eye, it presents an additional layer of completeness that satisfies simply because of the alignment of character and commitment. Luckily, this has been preserved by like minded souls that realised value, was much more than what it cost.
It has aged very well indeed, retaining its structure and shape, providing an elegance that is only flattered by it's intended position and the movement of light and shadow it receives. It reaches a height of 88cm to the rear, dropping to 55cm to the front and forming an approximate 20cm square footprint. The carved panels most definitely provide a quite unique look that inspire a lasting moment of satisfaction upon entering or leaving. Each leg is turned at the base, extending to provide the accurate slots that hold the frame together yet the attention to detail goes further as they finish in four corner, turned ball features that many other stands would not have. Of course helpful and convenient for hats or a dog leash but not to be overlooked for the consideration and elegance the original maker included as features, more difficult to create, but worthy of such extra detail and composition.
A genuinely lovely piece that would grace many area's with poise and significance. It is suitably aged and looking beautiful without any need for the'refurbished' techniques that quite frankly destroy the appeal of beautiful woodwork in my opinion. Clearly an individual choice, but if I was to advise a finish that I would suggest, it would be a couple of coats of Osmo hardware/oil, clear matt finish. Some may prefer a wax such as Fiddes but I always reach for Osmo products as they only enhance as they nourish and protect.
Sometimes a clear satin sheen works particularly well. With Osmo, the satin hardwax/oil looks immediately quite shiny but it does fade back to a lovely more subdued look a few weeks after it cures. Natural, matt finish does take a bit of getting used to as we are conditioned to expect a slight or pronounced sheen to our wooden products.A coating of Osmo, whether matt or satin, clear hardwax/oil would be my recommendation for this wonderful stand. The wood is then nourished and protected for years to come.
Wet items will not impact or stain the oak and preserve it's beauty for a long time before a top up coat is required. This is a fabulous stand that could survive for centuries if maintained as it has been so far. It's wonderful to consider that a oak tree has provided an item that gives joy to so many over such a long time and is presented to generations that fully appreciate that process of continuity. Incidentally, I photographed this on my Japanese Hibachi table made in elm wood. If that is something that appeals to you, perhaps revisit and have a look if I do decide.
Hmm, that has me thinking! If the stand is for you, I will make sure that it is thoroughly presented for transit to arrive intact. Many thanks for looking and I wish you all the best.